Rajinikanth And Kamal Haasan Reunite For Thalaivar 173, Sundar C To Direct: Know More About The Film

A landmark collaboration is officially set as Superstar Rajinikanth will star in the film 'Thalaivar 173', which is being produced by his long-time friend and veteran actor Kamal Haasan under his banner, Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI). The movie will be directed by popular Tamil filmmaker Sundar C. Slated for a grand theatrical release by Red Giant Movies during Pongal 2027, this project celebrates the decades-long friendship and brotherhood between the two legendary actors.

The news was officially revealed on X (formerly Twitter) with a post that included two heartwarming photos and a special handwritten note, immediately going viral and causing a social media frenzy.

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Details of the Collaboration Between Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan

The announcement post featured a picture of the iconic duo, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, embracing in a hug that radiated warmth and mutual admiration. A second image captured the complete creative team: Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, director Sundar C, and producer R. Mahendran, who is co-producing the film.

The accompanying caption, "Happiness unlimited #Thalaivar173 #Pongal2027," amplified the excitement.

The official statement from Raaj Kamal Films International read: "Superstar Rajinikanth is set to headline the magnum opus #Thalaivar173, under Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International banner, directed by Sundar C."

The handwritten note further emphasised the profound connection between the stars, stating, "This landmark collaboration not only unites two towering forces of Indian cinema but also celebrates five decades of friendship and brotherhood between Superstar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, a bond that continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike."

Happiness unlimited #Thalaivar173 #Pongal2027@rajinikanth @ikamalhaasan #SundarC #Mahendran @RKFI @turmericmediaTM @magizhmandram pic.twitter.com/Hgswm1VP1K

— Raaj Kamal Films International (@RKFI) November 5, 2025

Social Media Reactions

The announcement sparked immediate reactions online. Director Sundar C’s wife, actor-politician Khushbu Sundar, expressed her excitement, sharing the press note and writing, "My heroes in one frame! Excitement beyond words," along with heart emojis. Fans were equally thrilled that the collaboration was finally official, with one commenting, "Rajinikanth-Kamal combo going strong since 1970. Is there any duo like them in any movie industry?"

However, the choice of director led to mixed reactions, with one fan posting, "The unity I wished for. Not the director I asked for." Conversely, others were optimistic, with a user stating it was good to see this combination going to give another blockbuster after Arunachalam. Another fan expressed relief about the film's genre, commenting that it was a relief that it wouldn't be "another run-of-the-mill gangster film!" The user concluded: "Three cheers to Rajini, Kamal and Sundar C! Waiting for Pongal 2027!"

While the plot of the film is being kept under wraps, the project has been described as a mass entertainer that will blend commercial storytelling with a strong emotional core, celebrating the 50-year friendship of the two cinematic icons.

My Heroes in one frame!!! Excitement beyond words!! ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/VCR6BbVlMA

— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) November 5, 2025

On the Work Front

Both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan had been hinting at a collaboration even before the release of Rajinikanth's recent film, 'Coolie'. Rajinikanth is currently busy with the filming of the sequel to his 2023 hit, 'Jailer'. Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan was recently seen in Mani Ratnam’s 'Thug Life' and is also shooting for an untitled project.

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Image courtesy: Instagram

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